Welbeck was expecting to add to his 26 England caps, but is now unlikely to be risked, with manager Roy Hodgson hoping that he will be fit in time for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Switzerland on Monday.

The knock comes after the 23-year-old completed his move from Manchester to London, with his place in the United team having all but evaporated following the arrival of Radamel Falcao at Old Trafford.

After signing on deadline day Welbeck will help fill the void at the Emirates Stadium left by the injury to Olivier Giroud. The player scored 29 goals in 142 games during his time at United, and also netted six times during a loan spell with Sunderland.